Shadow of redemption

Cooking

Hello everyone welcome to new chapter ☺️☺️☺️

As soon as Aaravi received the call from her family, she could sense their eagerness for her to return home. With a soft sigh, she assured them she'd be home after a quick patient check.

Aaravi (on call):
"I'm just finishing up with a patient, Papa. You all start dinner without me, I'll join in half an hour."

Her father, Rajesh Kapoor, wasn't having it.
Rajesh (firmly):
"Half an hour means you better be home by then, beta. Aryan's already looking at the clock like it's a countdown."

Aaravi chuckled, imagining Aryan pacing around the dining table with his typical impatience.
Aaravi (grinning):
"Tell him not to throw a tantrum; I'll be there soon."

Hanging up, she turned to Rakshit and smiled. She gestured for him to follow her to a small, cozy kitchen adjacent to her rest room. The kitchen, though compact, had everything needed to whip up a meal. Rakshit leaned against the door frame, observing her as she tied her hair into a loose bun, preparing to cook.

Just as Aaravi was about to start, Rakshit strode over and gently took the ladle from her hand.

Rakshit (in a calm, firm voice):
"Leave it, Aaravi. I'll handle this. You've had a long day-just sit and relax. I know my way around a kitchen."

Aaravi raised an eyebrow, playfully crossing her arms.
Aaravi (teasing):
"Oh really? you can cook, huh? What else are you hiding from me?"

Rakshit smirked, rolling up his sleeves, his dominating aura momentarily replaced by a softer, playful tone.
Rakshit:
"There's a lot you don't know about me, but one thing's for sure-tonight, you're not lifting a finger. Tell me, what do you want to eat?"

Aaravi thought for a moment, her eyes lighting up as she teased him.
Aaravi:
"Something spicy! And make extra, I'll take some for home too. Maybe... Aloo Gobi and paneer? Oh! And paneer chilli, please!"

Rakshit chuckled, a soft smile forming as he lightly patted her head.
Rakshit (gently):
"My queen has spoken. Paneer chilli it is."

He got to work with surprising efficiency, chopping vegetables and preparing the ingredients with a grace that stunned Aaravi. She leaned against the counter, watching him with a sense of awe. Who would've thought that the feared mafia boss could be so comfortable in a kitchen? The sight of him cooking with ease made her heart flutter.

Rakshit (without turning to face her, grinning):
"Why are you staring at me like that?"

Aaravi bit her lip, a blush creeping up her cheeks.
Aaravi (laughing softly):
"I'm just trying to wrap my head around the fact that you're not only good at cooking but also... well, that you're doing this for me."

Rakshit's expression softened as he glanced at her briefly.
Rakshit (softly):
"I'd do anything for you, Aaravi."

His words hung in the air, creating a tender moment between them. Aaravi found herself momentarily speechless, but she recovered quickly, her playful nature taking over.

Aaravi (grinning):
"Okay, Mr. Chef, but hurry up! I need to get home; everyone's waiting. Mom, Aryan, and Riya have been fasting too, and they won't eat until I arrive."

Rakshit paused for a moment, turning to her with an understanding look.
Rakshit:
"If that's the case, you should head home. You'll eat there, and we can meet tomorrow. I'm staying in Delhi for a while."

But Aaravi shook her head, her voice gentle yet firm.
Aaravi:
"No. If I leave now, you won't eat properly, and I can't let that happen. I'll make sure you have a full meal before I go."